Rawlings Heart of the Hide PROSCM41JB

Plying catcher is unlike any other position on the diamond. For one thing, you’re the only one facing the opposite direction of everyone else on your team. However, the equipment you use is obviously different as well. While your talent, athletic ability and dedication are all important parts of being the best catcher possible, you also need the right equipment—your glove chief amongst it. So if you want to reach your potential in this position, the Rawlings Heart of the Hide (PROSCM41JB) 34″ is definitely worth your consideration.

Rawlings

Few companies can claim to have had as long a legacy with the sport of baseball as Rawlings. The company’s history goes all the way back to 1887. Although, today, Rawlings specializes in softball, basketball and football gear, it originally began with a focus on baseball.

Since 1977, Rawlings has been the official supplier to Major League Baseball of the actual baseballs they use. The company also created the MLB Golden Glove Award. As you can probably imagine, then, numerous baseball players use Rawlings in the field.

So if you want a glove that even the pros trust, and have for decades, you can’t go wrong with a Rawlings.

Materials

Aside from what this glove can do for you as a catcher, this piece of equipment really is a thing of beauty. It’s made from leather that comes from Horween Leather Company, which has provided the material to Rawlins since 1929. Half of professional baseball players use gloves made with this type of leather, so you know it’s good.

On the Rawlings Heart of the Hide (PROSCM41JB) 34″, though, it looks amazing. That’s because it’s Heart of the Hide leather wrapping the glove’s shell. Tennessee Tanning pro lace is then used to sew it all together. Pro mesh is utilized to help you better grab each pitch. Finally, a deer tanned cowhide lining provides utility and comfort.

The Pocket

Along with the Pro Mesh that runs along part of the shell, your ability to catch and control a ball is aided by the single-piece closed web that helps form a deep pocket. You won’t have any issues scooping a ball with this glove on your hand.

Fit and Use

With higher quality materials and design, you can use this glove all day without experiencing any discomfort or losing any utility over time. The back of this catcher’s mitt is a conventional style with a wide opening that lands just above the wrist.

Thanks to the Pro Mesh, this glove is 15% lighter than its average competitor so you won’t experience nay unnecessary fatigue.

Price

This glove is definitely made for elite players who want to take their game to the next level. Being the choice of Yadier Molina, 2011 Golden Glove Award Winner, also helps justify the asking price of just under $250. Although it does come with a one year manufacturer’s warranty, so that may help allay some concerns you have about investing so much money in such a great glove.